EMS fleet expanded to enhance care in growing communities at HCA Florida Brandon Hospital
As HCA Florida Brandon Hospital continues to grow alongside the expanding communities of Hillsborough and Polk counties, the hospital is proud to announce the addition of two new ambulances to its emergency medical services (EMS) fleet strengthening its ability to deliver timely, advanced care when every second counts.
The expanded fleet significantly enhances the hospital’s capacity to transport patients in need of higher-level emergency or specialized care from its six freestanding emergency departments (soon to be seven) to HCA Florida Brandon Hospital for further treatment and intervention. These emergency departments include HCA Florida University Emergency, HCA Florida New Tampa Emergency, HCA Florida Riverview Emergency, HCA Florida Plant City Emergency, HCA Florida Lakeland Emergency and HCA Florida North Lakeland Emergency. HCA Florida FishHawk Emergency is in the permitting phase with construction expected to begin in early 2026.
“With the addition of these two new ambulances, we are not only increasing our reach, but ensuring our community members continue to receive the high-quality, seamless integrated life-saving care HCA Florida Brandon Hospital is known for,” said Dr. David Arbona, medical director of Brandon Hospital EMS. “This investment represents our ongoing commitment to meeting the growing healthcare needs of the families we serve.”
When all EMS units are in operation, Brandon Hospital EMS averages about 15 transports each day across day and night shifts, a dramatic increase from when the service first launched with just two units and 17 total transports in December 2022.
As the EMS team has expanded, so too has its capability. Brandon Hospital EMS now transports higher-acuity patients from its freestanding emergency departments thanks to state-of-the-art ventilators and video capable laryngoscopes. The team is also proud to be the only adult ECMO team in the state that carries Nitric Oxide providing advanced respiratory support for some of the most complex patients.
The newly added ambulances were designed with both technology and comfort in mind, built by a manufacturer that insulates its vehicles for optimal climate control, a critical feature in Florida’s year-round heat.
“These new ambulances allow our teams to continue delivering the advanced, compassionate care that our patients deserve,” added Melissa Bell, VP of emergency services. “Every mile we travel represents our mission in motion, bringing the highest level of care to our community, wherever it’s needed.”
As HCA Florida Brandon Hospital prepares to open its seventh freestanding emergency department to serve this fast-growing community, the hospital remains focused on expanding access, improving outcomes and advancing care for patients across the region.